Has anyone done an extensive rebuild of the SU carb? It's the next thing that need's to be done to improve driveabilty. I took the carb apart to clean it and blow out any crude that may have been in there and noticed that the needle and seat have wear marks and other componets are showing their age as well. Also has any one seen the electric ignition conversion for the point and rotor, was thinking I would like to change that out too.

 

I have never done one.(Little before my time)

I don't think there is a kit for going to the electronic ignition but I know there is another Volvo model that had it and it can be installed but I forget the details. We had to do one at work for a customer.

 

Hang on until I shift my beard off the keyboard.

Unfortunately, not before my time. I did one or three35 - 40years ago.

You need patience and a spotlessly clean working surface.

Thisis a link to agood guide for the SU HIF which should be fitted to the earlier Volvos:

http://www.a-serious.com/forums/inde...rial&id=11

As for the ignition conversion I also did this on most of my earlier cars and also on some belonging to friends.

This is a link to a UK company who still produce the kits:

http://www.quasarelectronics.co.uk/s...c-ignition.htm

It is very similar to the kits I used and theymade a great improvement to starting, performance and economy.

 

is the rebuild an "at home" project or would I be better off to have it done at a carb shop? I am waitting to hear back from SU in England as to the full overhaul kit, and would like to do it soon, but also want it done right, I have rebuilt chevy, ford and honda and stihl carbs before

 

When I did mine it was an at home job due to costs and lack of money on my part.

In view of the age of the carb and the tighter controls on emissions nowadays I would certainly consider having this done professionally. It is my experience that the companies specializing in this work try to keep costs to you toa minimumand turn out a finished product that you can't. I mean no disrespect to your abilities but they have the expertise and equipment.

 

having trouble Id'ing my carb do you know what model was on the 83/84 B21a the it looks like a HIF6 SU, but Burlen(SU) say's that there was two model's fitted to that year

 

SU's are great carbs. You can buy aftermarket rebuild kits for a fraction of genuine prices, I would go that way. If you've rebuilt say a Holley vacuum secondary car, an SU is doable.
You will need the factory manual for your car for specifications.
I used to own this:


Had twin SU HIF's. Tuning and balancing multiple SU's is straightforward enough, you just need time and the correct tools.

Regards, Andrew.